Steps to get licensed in Maryland
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX dental hygiene exam (ADHLEX) with at least 75% on each section.
- Pass the Maryland dental hygiene jurisprudence exam (75% on each section).
- Apply to the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners at least 30 days before the exam.
Board exams for Maryland licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Maryland accepts ADEX. You need at least 75% on each section of the ADEX dental hygiene exam (ADHLEX).
The American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) exam. It was formerly given through CDCA-WREB-CITA, which included WREB and CITA.
Our dental hygiene board exam guide covers how the NBDHE works, how it's scored, and how to study.
Jurisprudence exam and local anesthesia
- Jurisprudence exam
- Required
Maryland requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license.
- Local anesthesia
- Separate credential
Maryland requires board recognition to give local anesthesia. You need a 28-hour board-approved course (20 didactic and 8 clinical hours) and a local anesthesia exam, and a dentist must be on site.
Moving to Maryland with a license from another state
Maryland isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). Our guide to getting a dental hygiene license explains how it usually works.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist in Maryland?
About 3 years. BLS says dental hygiene programs usually take 3 years. ADEA puts the average associate degree program at 2 years, and most applicants finish prerequisite courses first. Of the 7 schools with dental hygiene programs in Maryland, 6 offer an associate degree and 1 offers a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE, a clinical exam, and the jurisprudence exam, then the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Maryland
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Maryland?
Not automatically. Maryland isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Maryland require a jurisprudence exam?
Yes. Maryland requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Maryland?
Maryland requires board recognition to give local anesthesia. You need a 28-hour board-approved course (20 didactic and 8 clinical hours) and a local anesthesia exam, and a dentist must be on site.
Which clinical exams does Maryland accept?
Maryland accepts one clinical exam: ADEX. You need at least 75% on each section of the ADEX dental hygiene exam (ADHLEX). Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- health.maryland.gov /dental/SiteAssets/SitePages/Bulletins/Licensi…
- mgaleg.maryland.gov /mgawebsite/laws/StatuteText
- health.maryland.gov /dental/Documents/COMAR/10.44.04 Practice of D…
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
Rules change. Confirm with the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners before you rely on them. Official board site